Pediatric Speech Therapy

The speech-language pathologists (SLPs) at MaineHealth are trained to evaluate, diagnose, treat and help prevent language and swallowing disorders in children. Our therapists work with parents, teachers and other care providers to create personal treatment plans that can be included in a child’s daily routine.

What is pediatric speech therapy and swallowing therapy?

Pediatric speech therapy helps children who have trouble making sounds, putting words together, or who stutter. Speech therapy can help with oral motor issues, such as feeding, swallowing and chewing.Our SLPs offer the highest level of personal care while helping children learn to help move their lips, mouth, and tongue to make sounds correctly.

What are the signs of a speech or swallowing issue?

Swallowing symptoms in young children

Trouble chewing

Breastfeeding difficulty

Coughing or gagging while eating

Spitting up or throwing up often

Not wanting to eat or drink

Taking a long time to eat (over 30 minutes)

Speech symptoms in young children:

Late to say first words

Trouble putting sounds together

Adding in extra sounds or words

Seeming to understand language much more than they are able to express themselves

People have a hard time understanding what’s being said

Does not stress the right syllables in words

Finding treatment

Talk to your child’s provider or pediatrician about your concerns. Getting treatment early can help improve your child’s progression and development. Your pediatrician will examine your child and may suggest a speech-language pathologist, sometimes known as speech therapist.

Speech-language pathologists work with children in small groups, one on one or sometimes right in the classroom to help develop their language skills. It is important to make sure the therapist is certified by the ASHA (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association).